While panic disorder is a serious problem, there are many effective treatments available. In fact, 70 to 90 percent of people with panic disorder are able to manage their panic with proper therapy or a combination of therapies. Many people feel much better just weeks after starting treatment.

Common Reasons for Not Seeking Help

Unfortunately, many people are reluctant to pursue treatment for panic disorder.

• Sometimes people manage to convince themselves that their panic problem isn’t serious.
• People often feel embarrassed about talking about anxiety and depression.
• People often blame themselves for their problems.
• Others simply dislike the idea of medication or therapy.
• Sometimes people will say that they have sought help but are frustrated because their condition was not diagnosed or treated effectively.

Do not let these or any other reasons stop you from getting proper treatment. If you have panic disorder, it is very important to get whatever help is necessary to overcome it, just as you would for any serious medical illness. For example, most diabetics will do what they can to get the proper medication and make the changes to their diet or lifestyle that they need. Most people with heart problems do the same. Panic disorders are just as serious as diabetes or heart problems, so you should feel good about doing everything you can to get medical help.

Do not be discouraged from getting help by people who say, "It's nothing to worry about," "It's just stress," "It's all in your head," or "Snap out of it." While they probably mean well, the fact is that most people who do not have panic disorder do not understand the experience so they do not understand how serious a problem it is.